Walking in Marrakesh

 After traveling around the Europe it was finally a time to cross the continent. I always loved Africa most, so it came to me as a natural decision to go there first. I pick Morocco, but not so sure why, as I’ve never heard much about this country before. I bought a ticket first, and then I started to plan my journey there. It was only for a week, so I can’t say it was too difficult, but I`ve had a major problem with my safety as for solo female. I remember, even the day before, when I wasn’t even sure if I will catch that fly or not. Luckily I did, and it turned to be one of my first and truly amazing visit to a new continent.

Few tips to have a peaceful stay

  So starting from the beginning, as I mentioned, I was a little bit concerned about traveling to Morocco. Well, mostly because of a general opinion, I read on the internet. That was first and the last time I was reading such a things. Of course you should always be intelligent while planning where to go, and general political knowledge about the situation in the area is essential, but that’s pretty it.

Everywhere will be dangerous if you will act stupidly. I consider Marrakesh as 100% safe place to be for solo travellers. Just remember to: appreciate and respect the culture and the people around you, whenever you are, don`t wonder alone at night in non touristic areas, and keep an eye on your belongings as of thieving. Drinking alcohol in public places is not a good idea too, nobody will arrest you, but you may upset some Moroccans, as it is forbidden in most places, especially in front of mosques. Morocco is a Muslim country (98.5% of the population), so please do wear respectfully. Don’t show too much, whether you are a female or male. Even if you will decide to wear a short skirt nobody will do anything to you, but you might be harassed from time to time. Morocco really is a safe place. Tourist police is on every corner in all main areas, and they do speak perfect English, as it is one of the requirements to become one. They are very helpful, you can always ask them about directions, or you can report any problem. They are there for you. Moroccans speak good English in general anyway, especially males, as they use it for trade, so you wont be lost in translation at all.

 

Public transport is very poor in Marrakesh, probably due to the tiny roads around. Locals just get around on motorbikes and scooter everywhere, so watch out! However, bad city communication is really not a great problem, as taxis are very cheap. I would say the price range from 3-4£ for going from the south to the north (from the airport is way more, I am afraid). But that’s if you’re in rush, walking around Marrakesh is truly a delightful experience. Seems like there is always a new astonishing thing around the corner, whether it’s a building, market or a little tea shop.

It  seems like the best idea to discover the area is just to get lost a bit and wander around. Names of the streets are in Arabic, so it’s not very helpful, but every now and then there will be a sign pointing the direction to Jemaa el-Fnaa, and from there it will be easy for you to find your way around. That is also another reason to book a hotel around that area.

  When it comes to accommodation, try to stay in the city center, called Medina. I pick a hotel just 10 meters from Jemaa el-Fnaa, probably the best place to stay. And the reason for that is because it’s the most lively, colorful area that comes to life in the evening. Its seems like Moroccans sleep all day long to enjoy the lights, atmosphere, music or just a musk of a chilly wind of night. All shops are open till late, till people and tourist are still around. You will find everything you need in this maze. Thought, main food stands are way too touristic for me, as they serve the same dished in every single stand, try to look around, especially in small streets. The food is more traditional, way more delicious, and its likely that you will sit with locals. During the day time try to always eat on the roof, most of the restaurants in the center got one. The view on High Atlas range is just exceptional with the unique city architecture, palm trees and Mosques. That will change your meal time to majestic and magnificent experience. Don’t look for alcohol, they don’t sell it anywhere there….sorry.

  If you love shopping then you are in the right place. I truly hate doing that back home, but even there I could walk around markets for hours! Everything is astonishing and very unique: clothes, shoes, hats, bags, tea pots, food dishes…just everything. I think, I will have to especially highlight bags.

The quality is incredible, with the big range from very small ones to very big. You can be sure that if you will get one, it will be outstanding back home, whenever you’re from. It was also the only place, so far, I have seen so many spices to buy around. I bought loads of them, especially saffron as It’s very cheap there. If I only knew before, I would arrive there with an empty bag, to be able to carry all that back home. Oh, I almost forgot to mention how important is to negotiate the price. Whatever you will hear, you have to divide in three and start, maybe even in four… especially when it comes to silver. If you see that the seller is loosing an interest, when you’re suggesting a very low price, higher it a bit. You both will always come to a good agreement.

  At the end, just quickly, I want to mention that Marrakesh, thought touched by a mass, booming tourism now, is still managing to keep their truly Moroccan spirit. Culture is present everywhere. It felt like in Bolivia for me, where people still proudly wear their traditional clothes, selling them in the shops, instead of going for more modern and commercial ones. I loved the fact that they do enjoy Medina a lot too. You can really see that. When there is someone singing, playing an instrument or just doing a fire show, locals are all around. Well, the only thing I did not like was when pushy sellers were all over you, but please note that you can just say no, walk away, it really isn’t a great problem. Mostly they were very nice and helpful. I did visit many countries, but I really don’t have loads on my list I want to visit again. Marrakesh is definitely one of them. So what are you waiting for? Check the flight now and book!